NORWAY — Stephens Memorial Hospital and Healthy Oxford Hills are now holding a weekly indoor walking program that encourages community members to stay physically active, even in the cold winter months.

The program, called “Walking for the Health of It”, will be going on every Tuesday from Jan. 7 through April 29.

According to Abbie Graiver, Director of Creative Services through Stephens Memorial Hospital, the program welcomes walkers of all ages and walking levels.

“It’s a huge benefit for people,” said Graiver.

According to Graiver, anyone wishing to participate in the program will meet at Oxford Hills Comprehensive High School once a week from 4:45 p.m. to 5:45 p.m. Walkers are encouraged to wear comfortable shoes and bring water.

Individuals will be walking through the OHCHS hallways during the hour, but no one is expected to participate for the entire time.

Graiver said that if people don’t want to walk for the whole hour, they can do whatever they feel comfortable with and participate for as long as they’d like.

Although walking programs have been going on for years through Stephens Memorial Hospital, Graiver believes that this is the first indoor walking program they have put on in the winter.

Apart from the Walking for the Health of It program, Stephens Memorial Hospital has created winter programs that will encourage individuals in the community to continue to stay active until spring has sprung.

The program is free but requires registration. Anyone wishing to register can call 743-1562, extension 6896.